Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center Announces 14th Annual Peace Builder Award Recipients

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Submitted by Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center

Each year, the Peace Builder Awards are an opportunity to nominate individuals, groups, and organizations that have dedicated their efforts to strengthening community. After careful consideration the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center’s Board of Directors has chosen the winners of the 14th Annual Peace Builder Awards. The 2016 Peace Builder Award recipients are:

  • peace builder awards
    Peace Builder Awards gala attendees enjoy the program during last year’s event. Photo credit: Phil Rose Photography.

    Lummi NationTransforming Justice Award – For engaging the community and taking collective action to transform the Lummi Judicial system through innovation and restorative practices.

  • Bellingham Peace VigilCommunity Award – For dedication to and advocacy for peace, non-violence, and social justice.
  • Jeff McKenna, MAD-HOPE, Youth Education Award – For equipping youth with the tools and resources for courageous and compassionate conversations about youth suicide.
  • Brad Lockhart, Bellingham Flag, Arts Award – For collaborative efforts to engage with the public and private sectors to create a cohesive visual representation of community identity.
  • Star Park Playground Project, City of Ferndale, Collaboration Award – For engaging the community in a collaborative project, and creating a common place for connection.
  • Eric Brown, Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition, Environment Award – For developing mutually agreeable solutions among diverse stakeholders.
  • Rick Qualls, Fountain Community Church, Volunteer Award – For fostering connections, and engaging the community in identifying and meeting basic needs of a vulnerable population.
  • Katherine and Sapphire OrlowskiCreative Conflict Resolution – For the courage and desire to come together to build communication and reach resolution through parent-teen mediation.
peace builder awards
Moonwater speaks during last year’s Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center’s Peace Builder Awards gala. Photo credit: Phil Rose Photography.

The Lummi Nation has been taking steps to promote justice and a healthier community through the development of Peacemaking Circles. This effort has been a proactive step in rebuilding trust between people and solving problems in a way that draws on the community’s rich traditions of deep listening and storytelling.

The WDRC invites the public to join in celebrating recipients for their collaboration, creativity, and effort towards reducing conflict and strengthening our community. “This is a critical time to invest in conflict resolution. Help us recognize those who inspire collaboration, embody peace, and give hope to our community,” stated WDRC Executive Director, Moonwater.

The 14th Annual Peace Builder Awards Gala takes place November 18, 2016 at 5:30 pm at the BTC Settlemyer Hall. Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased online at www.whatcomdrc.org, by calling 360-676-0122, or in person at the WDRC.

peace builder awards
During the 14th Annual Peace Builder Awards Gala, bid on items in a silent auction as part of the festivities. Photo credit: Phil Rose Photography

In addition to awards presentations, guests will enjoy a gourmet dinner prepared by BTC’s award-winning Culinary Arts program, live music, and Peaceful Poetry Youth Contest presentations; as well as a silent auction, wine wall, dessert dash, and a grand prize raffle.

All proceeds of the Peace Builder Awards Gala will benefit the WDRC and their mission to provide and promote constructive and collaborative approaches to conflict. For more information, contact Iris Maute-Gibson at 360-676-0122 or outreach@whatcomdrc.org.

 

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